Resignation Rules in Saudi Arabia
Resignation in Saudi Arabia is regulated by Saudi Labour Law. Employees must follow legal procedures, notice periods, and contractual rules to avoid penalties and loss of legal rights — especially End of Service Benefits (EOSB).
This guide covers:
- Legal resignation process
- Notice period rules
- EOSB impact
- Financial rights
- Employer obligations
- Employee responsibilities
- Special resignation cases
- Dispute protection
- Expat-specific resignation rules
1. What is Legal Resignation?
Legal resignation means ending employment by the employee in compliance with Saudi Labour Law and the employment contract terms.
Any resignation that violates contract terms may lead to penalties, compensation claims, or loss of EOSB.
2. Notice Period Rules
- Unlimited contract → Minimum 60 days notice
- Monthly paid employees → 30 days minimum (if contract states)
- Fixed-term contract → Must complete contract period
- Probation period → No notice required
3. EOSB Impact After Resignation
- Less than 2 years → No EOSB
- 2 to 5 years → 1/3 of EOSB
- 5 to 10 years → 2/3 of EOSB
- More than 10 years → Full EOSB
4. Financial Rights After Resignation
- Unpaid salary
- Unused leave compensation
- EOSB (as applicable)
- Pending allowances
- Overtime dues
5. Employer Obligations
- Accept legal resignation
- Process final settlement
- Pay dues on time
- Issue service certificate
- Release documents
6. Employee Responsibilities
- Serve notice period
- Handover duties
- Return company property
- Maintain professional conduct
7. Special Resignation Cases
- Health-related resignation
- Harassment or abuse
- Non-payment of salary
- Unsafe working conditions
- Contract violations
In such cases, resignation may be legally justified with full rights protection.
8. Legal Protection & Disputes
If disputes arise, employees can file cases through:
- HRSD platform
- Labour courts
- Najiz judicial system
9. Expat-Specific Resignation Rules
- Iqama validity impacts resignation
- Transfer rules apply
- Sponsorship obligations
- Exit visa linked to contract status
- Employer clearance required